Darshoel Willis Talon

It all began April 2, 1974, when he was born to Jimmy and Bettye Willis, the fourth of four children. He attended Parkway Elementary, Alderson Jr. High, Estacado High School, and graduated from Coronado High School. Darshoel (Dee) also attended Lubbock Christian University, where he earned honors on debate team. At an early age he united with the Hope Deliverance Temple under Elder Charles Tanner and Lyons Chapel under Pastor W. Davis. He was later united with Trinity Church under Pastor Randell Ross.

Upon completion of his formal education, Darshoel (Dee) moved to Austin to pursue a career in politics at the State Capital. He served as the House Appropriations Committee Clerk for the 77th and 78th Legislative sessions. In 2004, he was Director of the Texas Lone Star Chapter of the Texas Ebony Caucus, a group dedicated to environmental protection and ensuring that environmental policies include an African American perspective. He was Republican Precinct Chair for the 266th Precinct (2006 to 2008) and in 2006 served on the Temporary Resolutions Committee for the Republican Senatorial Convention, District 14. His most recent assignment was with the State House of Representative under Helen Giddings.

His career achievements - though impressive - pale in comparison to his spirit. His talents as a singer and comedic entertainer at family gatherings are legendary, as was his ability to "brighten" a room, by his mere presence. Darshoel never met a "stranger" and had a host of friends representing every color of the rainbow.

On March 29, his Father, deeming his earthly work complete, called him home. Darshoel leaves to cherish his memory his mother and father; brothers, Roderick D. Willis, Sr. and his wife Tina of Frisco, and Glenn O. Willis and Amanda Perez of Lubbock; sister, Trena Willis of Plano; and extended family, Chris and Tina Gaines of Austin. Special Recognition to: Suzette Gibson, Celestine Mosley, Mae Ollie Walker, Annie Compton, Paulette Fraizer, Lula Spence, and Sandra Phillips. He is also survived by four nephews, Glenn Willis Jr. of San Angelo, Taydrick Willis of North Little Rock, Ark., and Roderick Jr. and Elijah Willis of Frisco; two nieces, Taivyn Willis of North Little Rock, Ark., and Zaydraine Willis of Lubbock; and a host of aunts, relatives, and friends.

Service will be held Saturday, April 5, 2008, at 10 a.m., at Lyons Chapel Baptist Church. Burial will follow at City of Lubbock Cemetery under the direction of Griffin Mortuary.